Overwatch 2 Update: "Retail" Patch Notes & Review (August 24, 2023)

 Overwatch® 2 fans, get ready for an exciting update coming your way! On August 24, 2023, Blizzard is releasing a new patch that introduces a variety of changes, adjustments, and bug fixes to enhance your gameplay experience. From general updates to hero adjustments and bug fixes, this patch aims to fine-tune the game and keep you engaged in the fast-paced world of Overwatch® 2. In this article, we'll delve into the details of the update, discussing everything from player progression changes to hero updates and crucial bug fixes. Let's jump in!

General Updates

Player Progression

One of the standout changes in this update is the adjustment to player progression. The requirement for leveling up the Wins sub-badge has been refined, now requiring only 1 win instead of 2 across all heroes, game modes, and roles. This alteration aims to make progression smoother and more attainable for players. Alongside this change, the XP granted for these victories has been re-tuned for balance, ensuring that the player's journey remains engaging and rewarding.

Hero Updates

SUPPORT - Illari

Illari, the versatile support hero, has received some adjustments to her abilities to ensure a balanced gameplay experience.

Healing Pylon

• Heal reduced from 40 to 30.
• Shields reduced from 75 to 50.

Captive Sun

• Projectile Impact and explosion are now blocked by barriers.
• Projectile size decreased from 1.5 to 0.75 meters.
• Sunstruck duration decreased from 7 to 6 seconds.

These changes are implemented to create a healthier equilibrium between Illari's healing and damage capabilities while offering more avenues for counterplay against her abilities. The Healing Pylon has been made weaker to address its propensity for placement out of line-of-sight or at odd angles, resulting in less frequent destruction than intended. The adjustment to Captive Sun's behavior with barriers and projectile size necessitates greater precision for blocking or destroying, adding a strategic layer to engagements. Lastly, the reduction in Sunstruck's duration aims to make it more reasonable to avoid detonation damage.

Developer Comments

Blizzard acknowledges Illari's strong performance since her launch and seeks to maintain a harmonious gaming environment by implementing these changes. The adjustments reflect a careful consideration of gameplay dynamics and feedback from the community.

Bug Fixes

General

• Fixed the issue preventing some event challenges from counting towards the "Savior of the Underworld" achievement for the Brigitte Sparkplug skin.
• Rectified an error that categorized the Ashe Snakewrangler Skin in the Battle Pass as a premium reward instead of a free one. Players on the free Battle Pass track who unlocked this tier will now receive the skin automatically.
• Resolved the problem that led to players backfilling into the Underworld Event Mission and Invasion Story Missions.
• Fixed the unintended ability to spectate players in the Underworld Event Mission and Invasion Story Missions.

HEROES

• Echo: Addressed an issue causing cloned Illari's Captive Sun explosion to damage herself and her allies.
• Orisa: Fixed the absence of the "Who Said Chivalry Is Dead?" voice line in the Hero Gallery. Additionally, the Orisa World Cup Skin is now accessible.

MISSIONS

Toronto

• Issue Fixed: Slicers clipping into the Ferry, making them challenging to target.

Gothenburg

• Issue Fixed: The "The Babies Are Safe" challenge was previously unable to be completed.
• Issue Fixed: The Titan's invisibility during its intro in the Gothenburg mission.
• Issue Fixed: Invisible collision around the Mega-Cannon blocking Brigitte's Shield Bash and Whip Shot.

Underworld

• Issue Fixed: The "Stop, Thief!" challenge that was previously impossible to complete.

The Overwatch® 2 August 24, 2023 update brings a host of changes designed to enhance player progression, hero balance, and overall gameplay quality. Illari's adjustments strike a balance between her healing and damage potential while providing opportunities for strategic counterplay. Bug fixes ensure a smoother gaming experience, addressing issues from event challenges to hero-specific bugs. As the Overwatch® 2 journey continues, Blizzard's commitment to refining and perfecting the player experience shines through with each update. Get ready to dive into the action and explore the enhanced gameplay this update has to offer!